Understanding Entry Permits for the UAE: A Comprehensive Guide
Planning to visit, work, study, or live in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)? You’ll likely need an entry permit first. Think of it as a temporary pass that allows you to enter the country. This guide makes entry permits simple, explaining the different types, who needs them, and how to get them.
What’s an Entry Permit?
An entry permit is basically a pre-approval to enter the UAE. It’s a document you get *before* your actual visa is stamped in your passport. The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) issues these permits.
Types of Entry Permits for Short Visits:
These permits are generally for shorter stays in the UAE:
| Entry Permit Type | Visa Category | Purpose | Validity | Who Can Apply/Sponsor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist/Visit Entry Permit | Tourist/Visit Visa | Tourism, seeing friends/family, short business trips | Usually 30 or 90 days (single or multiple entry) | Individuals can apply through travel agencies, hotels, airlines, or UAE residents and companies can sponsor. Sometimes individuals can apply directly. |
| Patient and Companion Entry Permit | Patient and Companion Visa | To get medical treatment in the UAE, and for a person accompanying the patient | 60 days or 90 days from the day you enter (Single or Multiple entry) | A medical facility in the UAE |
| Transit Entry Permit | Transit Visa | For short layovers in UAE airports | 48 hours or 96 hours | Usually your airline, if you’re transiting through a UAE airport |
| E-visa for GCC Residents | GCC Resident Visa | For people living in other GCC countries | 30 days from the day you enter | You can apply online if you live in a GCC country |
Types of Entry Permits for Longer Stays:
These permits are for those planning to stay in the UAE for an extended period, such as for work, study or with family:
| Entry Permit Type | Visa Category | Purpose | Validity | Who Can Apply/Sponsor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employment Entry Permit | Employment Visa | To work for a company in the UAE | 60 days from when it’s issued | Your UAE-based employer (they need MoHRE approval) |
| Family Entry Permit | Family Visa (Residence Visa) | To live in the UAE with family | 60 days from when it’s issued | A family member living in the UAE (they need to meet certain salary requirements and other rules) |
| Investor Entry Permit | Investor Visa (Residence Visa) | For people who invest in property or businesses in the UAE | 60 days from when it’s issued | You can apply yourself (you’ll need to meet investment requirements) |
| Student Entry Permit | Student Visa | To study at a UAE school or university | 60 days from when it’s issued | An accredited educational institution in the UAE |
| Job Exploration Entry Visa | Job Seeker Visa | To look for a job in the UAE | 60, 90, or 120 days (one time only) | You can apply if you meet certain rules (like having a Bachelor’s degree or higher) |
Important: This is a general guide. Rules can change and may be different depending on your nationality. Always check the latest official information.
Things to Know About Entry Permits:
- Validity Period: Entry permits are only valid for a certain amount of time. You need to enter the UAE before it expires. Once you enter the country, the permit may change.
- Single or Multiple Entry: Some permits only let you enter once. Others allow multiple entries during the validity period.
- Sponsors: Usually, someone in the UAE needs to sponsor your entry permit. This could be your employer, a family member, a travel agency, or a hotel.
- How to Apply: Most applications are done online through the ICP website (www.icp.gov.ae) or at authorized typing centers. Your sponsor usually handles the application.
- Getting Your Visa: After you enter the UAE with the permit, you’ll need to get your actual visa. This usually involves a medical test and applying for an Emirates ID, then getting the visa stamped in your passport.
- Fees: There are fees for entry permits, and they vary depending on the type.
What You’ll Generally Need:
The exact requirements depend on the type of permit, but here are some common ones:
- Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months longer than your planned stay.
- Photos: Passport-size photos that meet UAE standards.
- Proof of Money: Sometimes you need to show you have enough money to support yourself during your stay (this depends on the visa type).
- Sponsor Documents: Your sponsor might need to provide certain documents, like their trade license or your employment contract.
- Medical Check: For some permits you will need to take a medical test in your country at an approved medical center.
In Short:
Getting an entry permit is your first step to visiting or living in the UAE. Make sure you understand the type of permit you need, who can sponsor you, and the application process. For the most up-to-date information, always check the official ICP website or speak with a visa specialist.
